Kapok is natural vegetable based fiber obtained from the seed capsules of trees grown in Java, Sumatra, and central America. The fiber is also known as silk cotton because of its natural luster similar to that of pure silk.
Kapok looks similar to cotton but can be easily distinguished from it when tested under a microscope. The fiber appears like a hollow tube with very thin walls and frequent folds.
Properties of Kapok
Kapok possesses the following properties that make it useful for manufacturing different products:
* Light
* Very Buoyant
* Resilient
* Highly Flammable
* Vermin Resistant
* Moisture Resistant
* Dries Quickly
* Smooth
Applications:
Kapok has a smooth texture, but because of being weak, it is not spun into yarn. The fiber is mostly used for manufacturing mattress, cushions, upholstered furniture, pillows, life jackets etc. The fiber is also used for sound proofing and insulation |
